Travelling
A lot of people travel nowadays. It's not surprising because distances between countries are becoming shorter due to the development of transport. The main forms of public transport are buses, trains, ships and airplanes. Each of them has its pros and cons.
Of course, air travel is quicker than other means of transport. This is particularly true if you are travelling long distances. Moreover, many people enjoy travelling by air because of the meal and the entertainment on board.
However, flying often involves delays and cancellations. You often spend more time getting to and from the airport than actually flying. In addition, planes are often cramped — people with long legs can find sitting in a plane for hours very uncomfortable. Turbulence can also spoil the flight. Finally, air travel is more expensive than any other form of modern transport.
However, it is more practical and economical to go by train or bus. Travelling by train is one of the most popular means of travelling. First of all, it's cheaper than travelling by air. Besides, modern trains are very comfortable. You can enjoy a splendid view of the country-side. And if you are hungry, you can have a meal in the dining car.
Some people prefer travelling by sea which is very exciting. If the weather is fine, you can relax on the large sun deck and enjoy the panoramic view of the sea. Modern ships are usually very comfortable: they offer air-conditioned cabins, a large dining area and even a swimming pool. But of course, if you are sea-sick, travelling by ship is not a good idea.
A lot of people travel by car because it's rather convenient. They don't have to buy tickets and to carry heavy luggage. They can stop wherever they wish and spend as much time as they like at any place. However, this way of travelling is not as comfortable and quick as travelling by plane or by train.
Vocabulary
due to — áëàãîäàðÿ
development — ðàçâèòèå
particularly — îñîáåííî
to involve — âûçûâàòü, ïðèâîäèòü ê, ïîäðàçóìåâàòü
delay — çàäåðæêà
cancellation — îòìåíà (ðåéñà)
in addition — ê òîìó æå
cramped — òåñíûé
to spoil — ïîðòèòü
flight — ïîëåò
threat — óãðîçà
definitely — îïðåäåëåííî
expensive — äîðîãîé
cheap — äåøåâûé
splendid — âåëèêîëåïíûé, ðîñêîøíûé
deck — ïàëóáà
cabin — êàþòà
to be sea-sick — ñòðàäàòü ìîðñêîé áîëåçíüþ
rather — äîâîëüíî
convenient — óäîáíûé
luggage — áàãàæ
according to — â ñîîòâåòñòâèè
aim — öåëü
preference — ïðåäïî÷òåíèå
coach — òóðèñòè÷åñêèé àâòîáóñ
to explore — èññëåäîâàòü
abroad — çà ãðàíèöåé
Îòâåòüòå íà âîïðîñû
1. Why do people travel nowadays?
2. What means of travelling do you know?
3. What are the pros and cons of flying?
4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of travelling by train?
5. Which way of travelling is the cheapest? Which one is the most expensive?
6. What is your favorite way of travelling? Why?
7. Do you like to travel? Why?
8. Who do you like to travel with?
9. Have you ever travelled on foot or by bike? If not, would you like to try to? Why?